K&K Pure pre-amp vs. XLR version

[MikeInBethesda]

Hi all, I have K&K pure mini pick-ups in a couple of my guitars, and am planning to purchase a K&K preamp. Do folks have an opinion on whether and under what circumstances the XLR version would be worth the $80 or so additional expense? In terms of gigging, we're talking mainly coffee houses and open mics. Thanks, Mike

[Nick84]

Having the XLR means you can run a longer cable to your mixer without loss of signal. It also sends a balanced signal. Worth the extra IMO

[SalFromChatham]

Agreed. Also, the small one on a belt clip always made me nervous about banging into and scratching my guitar when I had it. Heck I might still have it somewhere. Yikes.

[RustyAxe]

Originally Posted by MikeInBethesda

Hi all, I have K&K pure mini pick-ups in a couple of my guitars, and am planning to purchase a K&K preamp. Do folks have an opinion on whether and under what circumstances the XLR version would be worth the $80 or so additional expense? In terms of gigging, we're talking mainly coffee houses and open mics. Thanks, Mike

I use the Pure (no xlr) for most gigs, as it conveniently attaches to my belt. Unless you're 30 feet or more from the board (sometimes less if there's noisy lighting) you don't really need the DI. I use a short cable (2m) between the guitar and preamp. I also have a Whirlwind IMP-2 that I'll put between it and the board if I think I need to. But it works fine for 99% of what I do.

[Methos1979]

Another vote for the non-XLR one. All you really need for a coffee shop. I love that I can clip it to my right front pants pocket as it gives me instant access to volume control and EQ on the fly if I need it.

Most times I just clip it to my amp's handle and run it that way. I connect using a relatively low-end wireless system (X-vive X2) and I can walk all over the place with no cables. Great little system, battery lasts a wicked long time as long as you remember to unplug it from the correct side.

If I need balanced DI output for distances I use a Red Eye. (Note: I have yet to need that for any coffee house or any other gig I play.)